Durgam Cheruvu now a delight for walkers while Lakefront view awaits to August 15

Hyderabad: Durgam Cheruvu’s track for walking delights art enthusiasts and Nature lovers. On one side is a cable-stayed suspension bridge and on the other side is Lakefront view, play area and gym which are being set up. The first phase of Lakefront view is expected to be inaugurated in a fortnight and will be open for public after August 15.

Out of six km broad walk, 2.2 km has been developed in the first phase. This is currently open for public only in the mornings and evenings.

Durgam Cheruvu rejuvenation was undertaken by real estate developer K. Raheja Corp as a CSR initiative along with support from TSIIC, GHMC, TSTDC and HMWS&SB.

The 2.2 km jogging and cycling track has a central median with benches and signboards, cycle stand, children’s play area, yoga corner and toilet facilities. Phase1 of the lake was developed at a cost of Rs 15 crores.

“The walls portray Zentangle and mandala art. They are basically a concept of Mind Yoga wherein people relax the mind when they see fine lines. It is a trend progressing in the West,” Serilingampally Zonal Commissioner Harichandana Dasari said.

Raheja and GHMC officials are planning to introduce boating and kayaking activities here shortly. “We are also planning rock climbing, in the first phase of the project, as there are naturally formed rocks here. We are working to make it a Lake Park that will cater to local people and tourism. Plastic is completely banned at the site,” Dasari said.

GHMC may put up a rate chart similar to that of Pala Pitta park to meet needs once Phase2 gets completed. Until then, Raheja Group will maintain the lake.

A major portion of water hyacinth was removed from the lake. Currently, GHMC is taking up the cleaning of water hycanith at an interval of three months as the issue has not been completely addressed.

“The 5 MLD Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP) is being upgraded to 15 MLD after which water hyacinth will not resurface,” the Commissioner said.